Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe
Craving a bacon cheeseburger and a big bowl of creamy pasta? You don’t have to choose. This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta brings the bold flavors of a classic burger into a creamy, cheesy skillet meal that’s hearty, indulgent, and totally satisfying.
Made with ground beef, crispy turkey bacon, cheddar cheese, ketchup, mustard, and pasta, it’s like your favorite drive-thru order met your childhood mac and cheese—and the result is pure comfort food magic.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is all about flavor and ease. Everything cooks in one or two pans, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, and the flavor hits every note: savory, smoky, tangy, cheesy, and just a little sweet from the ketchup. It’s also incredibly flexible—you can use any short pasta, add in veggies, or even sub in plant-based meat.
Plus, it’s a guaranteed family favorite with tons of make-ahead and leftover potential.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Pickles
- Shredded lettuce
- Extra cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Turkey Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the chopped turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave a bit of the rendered fat in the skillet for flavor.
3. Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic to the same skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat, if needed.
4. Add Sauce Ingredients
Stir in the beef broth, heavy cream, ketchup, and mustard. Bring to a simmer, then add the cooked pasta and stir to coat.
5. Make it Cheesy
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve
Top with the crispy turkey bacon and your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, pickles, or even a sprinkle of extra cheese.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.
- Substitute plant-based ground or turkey for a lighter twist.
- Want a little heat? Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.
- Use any pasta shape you love—just go short and sturdy.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair this cheeseburger pasta with:
- Dorito Casserole for a full-flavor fiesta
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas as a fun, cheesy side
- Beer Cheese Dip for a snackable starter
- Walking Taco Bar to turn dinner into a party
- Copycat Neiman Marcus Cookies for a classic sweet ending
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Final Thoughts
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta takes all the things you love about a juicy, cheesy burger—savory meat, tangy ketchup and mustard, melty cheddar—and wraps them in a creamy, satisfying pasta dish. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again, whether it’s game night or just Tuesday.
Tried it? Tag us and show off your cheeseburger pasta creations! And follow ChefManiac.com for more bold, easy comfort food recipes the whole family will love.
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